The Vice-Chancellor (VC) of the University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Kayode Adebowale, has said the institution’s renewed global recognition reflects the ingenuity and research excellence of its academic community.

He stated this on Thursday during the third day of the university’s 2025 convocation ceremonies.

Mr Adebowale said the Times Higher Education 2026 World University Rankings placed UI in the 801–1,000 band globally, reaffirming its status as Nigeria’s best.

He particularly stated that the Faculty of Education and the Faculty of Environmental Design and Management sustained the university’s progress in research and innovation, driven by creativity.

According to him, UI’s global ranking is not just about numbers; it reflects the ideas, resilience, and excellence of our graduates who are shaping change in the world.

“This achievement not only re-establishes the University of Ibadan’s dominance in Nigeria’s higher education landscape, but it also reflects broader improvement in its global reputation and its ranking path,” he said.

Mr Adebowale said 45 students earned First Class Honours: 43 from Education and two from Environmental Design and Management, adding that their achievement underscored the institution’s enduring academic culture.

He acknowledged the dedication of the teaching and non-faculty staff for shaping the graduands, guiding them through their academic journey with commitment and care.

“May your labour continue to yield fruits of excellence,” Mr Adebowale said.

The VC urged the graduating students to sustain the university’s legacy of integrity and innovation by applying their knowledge to solve real-life challenges facing Nigeria and the world.

The commencement speaker, Charles Akinsete of the Department of English, addressing “The 21st Century Graduate: Digging Out the Gold in You,” charged the students to cultivate discipline, faith, and emotional intelligence.

According to him, these qualities are essential in navigating post-graduation realities.

“You must be extremely patient, optimistic, emotionally intelligent, always looking for the positive even in negative situations. My dear graduates, life is about perspective. Do not always construe people’s actions towards you as sheer wickedness,” Mr Akinsete said.

The valedictorian, Omolara Ajani, appreciated God and the support of their parents towards achieving success in life.

According to her, it was a journey filled with lessons and challenges, both of which shaped who they are now.

“We are now stronger and more prepared for what lies ahead. Let’s take a moment to reflect on things that have brought us this far. Let’s go forth and pursue our dreams,” Ms Ajani said.

A graduate from the Department of Human Kinetics, Boluwatife Olukole, who represented UI in football, encouraged other students not to give up striving for excellence.

(NAN)